Host A Neighborhood Barbeque

Alright.  So you may be asking yourself how hosting a neighborhood barbeque provides a service to the community?  The answer is actually quite simple:  A neighborhood barbeque builds community relationships.  Even if it just involves the neighbors on your immediate block, that's a great start.   Getting to know your neighbors helps keep you informed about what's going on in your area.  Strong neighborhood relationships improve the quality of life for the entire block.  They can lead to formal or informal neighborhood watches.  Sometimes neighbors work together to improve the overall appearance of the block whether that involves picking up litter, improving the landscaping, etc.  Knowing what is going on in the lives of your neighbors can help you become a more supportive neighbor that will likely be reciprocated by your other neighbors.  For example, you might decide to take dinner to a neighbor who has just given birth to a child.  You know they probably have their hands full those first few days home from the hospital.  Making them a warm dinner can often be an amazing gift.  The same goes for elderly neighbors, who might just enjoy your company from time to time.  The bottom line is that community betterment starts with relationships.  So why not take the easy route and start with a barbeque.  The foundation for the above can start with something as simple, easy, and enjoyable as a few beers, some great barbeque and a game or two of horseshoes.